Saturday, December 15, 2007

Flashback: September 7, 1979 Genie Francis & More

Soap Opera Scene
Waterloo Courier
By John N. Goudas

It seems the honeymoon is over the for Baldwin newlyweds. Married barely a month, "General Hospital's" troublemaking teenager Laura Webber Baldwin has the hosts for her disco boss Luke Spencer.

Hubby Scotty Baldwin feels bewildered. What has gone wrong? The loving bride has turned to ice overnight. The Baldwin marriage is disintegrating. A temporary rift is at hand, one that could be permanent.

If 17-year old Genie Francis, who plays Laura, has a clue, she won't tell. Keep the fans guessing...the fans dig the juicy plotting if the mail is any indication. The bride's love affair is a key factor in "Hospital's" number one rating during the summer.

A "General Hospital" performer for two seasons, young Genie Francis continues to make waves as Laura Webber Baldwin, a kid unable to stay out of trouble. Last fall young Luara face a murder rap involving her 40-year old lover and her over-protecive mom., Leslie Webber (Denise Alexander). Teenaged trauma proved to be a strong contrast to grownup tribulations at the hospital, a plot device designed to attract a younger following.

Juvenile Genie performed like a seasoned pro as the unstable Laura, so after a decent respite producer Gloria Monty has the youngster front and center again.

A little over two years ago, Genie lander her first guest part on ABC's "Family," then signed with the hospital soaper as a regular. It became obvious the youngster had talent and Genie's classroom was the set. Quick to make the most of the break, Genie took her high school exam early, and has plans to attend college.

"I missed out on some of my childhood by performing on 'Hospital,'" Genie admitted recently. "But as my father (actor Ivor Francis) says, 'to accomplish a great dream, you have to give up a part of yourself.' Since I want to be an actress more than anything, I don't regret a minute of it."

Keep an eye on young Genie. She's headed straight up.

CHANNEL CHATTER:
Wendy Girard has turned a non-contract role into a featured part as nurse Connie Fuller on "As the World Turns." Wendy's background is mostly in the theater. Also on "As the World Turns" is nine-yearold Marisa Morell. She replaced Jenny Harris as Emmy Stewart Jenny by the way is the real life daughter of Marie Masters, who left the show to try her luck in California. Marisa, at nine, is a veteran of Broadway, She was one of the featured children in "I Remember Mama," and is currently flying high as "Jane" in the all new "Peter Pan" musical starring Sandy Duncan.

Rosemary De Camp, whom veteran TV fans will recall from "Life of Riley" (with Jackie Gleason) and "The Bob Cummings Show" (as Bob's sister) and "That Girl" (as Marlo Thomas' mother) among others has joined the cast of "Days of Our Lives" in the role of the mother superior of a convent...

PLOT PORTENTS:
When will Stephanie tell Bob Anderson she's his daughter on "Days of Our Lives?" It better be soon, as Linda is plotting to trap Stephanie and Bob in a compromising situation. It looks like Alex Marshall) has struck a chord with Maggie. Also, with encouragement from pregnant Marlena, Don finally decides to accept the mayor's offer.

If Lance dumps Lorie on "The Young and the Restless," will rejected Lorie turn to her brother-in-law, Lucas'' Lorie can be counted on to raise a ruckus. Meanwhile, Stuart
Brooks is unable to cut off his young wife Jill and can only commiserate with his
daughter Lorie. Also, the troubles of Julie and Cathy are far from over,

Alan and Hope are rescued on "Guiding Light," and Hope worries about Jackie getting wind of her intimacy with Alan. Jackie and Diane declare a truce while Alan gets a disturbing phone call.

Maeve is troubled by a conversation with Delia on "Ryan's Hope." Siobhan and Johnny clash and 'the unwieldy Rae seeks retribution.

Eddie and Mark discuss a common interest on "All My Children." Erica gets an ultimatum from an unlikely source and Phoebe Tyler takes Langley into her confidence.

Vicki is puzzled by a phone conversation with Joe on "One Life to Live." Meanwhile, Joe summons his lawyer. Brad questions Peter's motives and Karen makes a slip of the tongue.

An unexpected Logan is in for a surprise on "Edge of Night." And Brian gives Paige some startling news.

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